IPC Wants Joint Funding For Olympics And Paralympics

International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) President Philip Craven is talking to the International Olympic Committee about worldwide sponsorship deals covering both the Paralympics and the Olympic Games starting with the 2018 Games reports Reuters.

Craven said Monday plans for the IPC to build on the success of the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing were dampened by the global economic showdown.

Craven told reporters in Vancouver, "I think that the consequences of the downturn in the economy have meant that that's on hold for the moment".

He added, "it has been prompted by what has happened here in Vancouver and what is happening in London, where sponsors are demanding both Games. This is a time for new things when you're in a downturn".

Organizers reportedly expect international television viewership for the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Games to be the highest ever for a Winter Paralympic Games. The Canadian broadcaster is expected to offer three times the coverage given to the 2008 Games in Italy.

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